In the 1880s, self-made Richmond millionaire, philanthropist, and amateur horticulturist Lewis Ginter (a founder of the American Tobacco Company and creator of the Jefferson Hotel) built the Lakeside Wheel Club as a playground for the city's elite. The resort boasted a lake, a 9-hole golf course, cycling paths, and a zoo. After Ginter's death in 1897, his niece, Grace Arents, converted the property to a hospice for sick children. An ardent horticulturist herself, she imported rare trees and shrubs and constructed greenhouses. Now owned by the city, it's one of the finest botanical gardens in Virginia. The Conservatory is the only such classical, domed facility in the state. Give yourself plenty of time to walk through the 40 acres of gardens, tour the Bloemendall House, visit the conservatory and library-education complex, have lunch at the Garden Cafe or refreshments in the Robins Tea House, and browse the garden shop.